
Palak Juneja
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Written By: Palak Juneja | Updated : May 12, 2016 6:10 PM IST
Isn t it sad that the medication which aims at getting rid of the disease ends up causing side effects? The medication for blood pressure is effective, but it isn t incorrect to say that like most medications, it has side effects too. Dr. Neeraj Kumar Tulara, General Physician, discusses about the side effects of blood pressure medication.
Usual medications for blood pressure
The usual medications for blood pressure are beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, lisinopril, losartan, olmesartan and metoprolol. All of these help in treating blood pressure.
Side effects of blood pressure medications
Calcium channel blockers used to treat high blood pressure may cause swelling of lower legs or feet. It is the most common medication used for treating high blood pressure. The side effects may include headache and dizziness.
Lisinopril is another medication used to treat high blood pressure. If you are suffering from kidney problem or liver problem, you are advised not to take lisinopril. It has side effects such as coughing, headache and dizziness.
Metoprolol is a beta blocker that treats high blood pressure. It reduces the heart rate and therefore you should not use it if you are a heart patient or have severe circulation problems. Dizziness, coughing and trouble in sleeping can be some of the side effects caused by metoprolol.
Losartan should not be taken to treat high blood pressure if you are pregnant or have kidney problems as it may lead to kidney deterioration. The side effects of losartan include cold, cough, stomach pain and headache.
Olmesartan is another medication used to treat high blood pressure. It should not be taken during pregnancy, as it can harm the fetus. It has side effects such as weakness, dizziness and allergies.
How to get rid of the side effects of blood pressure medications
The combination of the medication can be altered to get rid of the side effects. It is most important for you to consult a doctor before taking any medicines. The doctor may reduce the dosage so as to reduce and counter the side effects of the blood pressure medications. You can also use natural remedies to treat high blood pressure.
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